Newborn Growth In The First Year

On average, newborn babies grow 0.5 to 1 inch (1.5 to 2.5 cm) each month from newborn baby’s birth to 6 months. From 6 to 12 months, newborn babies grow an average of 3/8 inch (1 cm) per month.

Newborn babies may grow more (growth spurts) or less during sometimes. For example, toddlers tend to go through growth spurts at:

10 to 14 days

5 to 6 weeks

3 months

4 months

Why I Should Keep Track Of My Newborn length?

Your pediatrician will measure your newborn for length at each appointment. This is an important measurement, but your doctor will likely be most concerned that your newborn is gaining weight each month.

Toddlers should double their birth weight by age 5 months, and triple their birth weight by one year.

Remember, babies go through growth spurts. Your newborn’s month-to-month progress on the growth chart isn’t as important as the trend of their curve overall. ­­

If there’s a problem and your baby fails to grow or their growth has slowed during their first year, your doctor may refer you to a specialist. An endocrinologist may take blood tests, X-rays, or body or brain scans to determine why your newborn has stopped growing.

In rare cases, your doctor may want to test your newborn for:

Growth hormone deficiency

Turner syndrome

Hypothyroidism

Your doctor can recommend medications or hormone injections, if necessary.

How Much Should I Feed My newborn?

Every newborn is different, but here are some guidelines for how much and how often your newborn should eat:

Solid foods should be started between 6 to 8 months, though your doctor may recommend introducing solids earlier if your newborn shows signs they’re ready.

Once you introduce solids, continue to provide breastmilk or formula until your newborn is at least 1 year of age.

Feeding frequency charts like the one above should be used as a guide only. It’s best to feed your newborn when they’re hungry.
Unless specifically advised by their pediatrician, avoid withholding food or forcing your newborn to eat when they aren’t interested.